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Winemaker's Notes

The Chardonnay grapes were sourced from three blocks within the highly acclaimed Bien Nacido
Vineyard in the southeastern corner of the Santa Maria Valley. The grapes were 100% hand harvested and delivered via refrigerated truck to Wild Horse Winery in the morning. Upon delivery to the winery, the grapes were pressed whole cluster using a bladder press. Hard press was separated from free run and processed separately. Primary fermentation was initiated in a stainless steel tank followed by immediate transfer to a mix of French, Hungarian, and American barrels. Upon completion of primary fermentation, barrels were topped and inoculated with malolactic bacteria. The wine and lees were stirred weekly for three months to enhance mouth feel and provide self fining. This Unbridled Chardonnay was aged in 35% new oak for 10 months.

Our 2007 Unbridled Chardonnay provides incredible depth and richness while also maintaining the elegant characteristic of old world wines. The ocean influence in the Santa Maria Valley provides the distinctiveness of citrus, pear, and apple coupled with bright acidity. The 100% malolactic fermentation naturally lowers the inherent acidity in the wine contributing to a complex and fulfilling mid-palate richness. This exquisite Chardonnay demonstrates extremely bright citrus and apple aromas mixed with
subtle nutty caramel from the French Oak followed by a graceful, well balanced finish. This wine is well
paired with seared Ahi and grilled rolled chicken tacos with corn cake.

Wild Horse Winery

Located south of Paso Robles in Templeton, California, Wild Horse Winery was founded in 1983 by Ken Volk. Wild Horse Winery was named for the wild mustangs that roamed the hills east of the vineyard estate. These mavericks suggest a free, noble spirit and are the ideal symbol for the Wild Horse Winery commitment to spirited winemaking. The vineyard and winery location was selected for its low vigor soils, proven ground water table, proximity to Estero Bay and rural atmosphere. Wild Horse Winery creates compelling wines from 16 diverse appellations and more than 40 vineyards from the Central Coast. Wild Horse Winery is committed to sustainable viticultural and business practices and creating fine wines that express the best of the region’s diversity. "Live Naturally, Enjoy Wildly" reflects the attitude and personalities of the people who have been creating these wines for over 25 years.
View all Wild Horse Wines

About Santa Maria Valley

Situated near the ocean in the larger Santa Barbara district, the Santa Maria Valley appellation runs east to west. Pacific Ocean air funnels in to cool the vineyards, allowing the grapes to evenly ripen and reach their full potential. This unique climate paired with the region's well-drained soils helps create some sought-after grapes.

Notable Facts

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the most planted varieties in the AVA, which covers over 7,000 acres of land. Syrah is gaining more ground as it consistantly produces outstanding wines. Many vineyards are owned by growers and sold to wineries, so seeing a vineyard name on multiple producer's bottles is common. One of the better known vineyards, Bien Nacido, is found on the labels of some of the most prestigious wines of the area.

About California

It's not rare to see a wine's country of origin listed as "California." A country into itself in the wine world, California makes enough varieties and styles to match many European wine countries. It produces a diverse range of wines that span the quality spectrum.

The most famous of the California wine regions is Napa Valley, and these wines are certainly outstanding – but it's not as broad and diverse as its larger neighbor, Sonoma County. Down south, Santa Barbara's Santa Maria Valley is well-known for its Rhône blends, as well as cool-climate varieties like Pinot and Chardonnay. The Central Coast, the largest California AVA, has many different microclimates that lead to a wide range of wines with many sub-AVAs.

Alcohol By Volume Guide

Most wine ranges from 10-16% alcohol by volume. Some varietals tend to have higher (for example Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon) or lower alcohol levels (Pinot Noir and many white varietals), but there is always some variation from producer to producer. Some wine falls outside of this range, for instance Port weighs in closer to 20%, while Muscat and Riesling are usually a bit below 10%.

Wine Style Guide

Light & Crisp

Light to medium bodied wines that are high in acid and light to medium fruit. Typically no oak.